PLA’s 95th anniversary celebrated at Pakistani GHQ

Rawalpindi: The 95th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China was celebrated here at the Pakistan Military’s General Headquarters (GHQ) – proving the everlasting friendship between the Iron Brothers.

Pakistani Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa was the chief guest at the ceremony marking the 95th anniversary of the founding of the PLA.

The event was also attended by Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong along with embassy officials, besides officers from the tri-services of Pakistan, an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement said.

Speaking on the occasion, COAS Bajwa said that the PLA of China and the Pakistan Army were brothers in arms and their relationship would continue to contribute towards safeguarding their collective interests.

The COAS felicitated the PLA and lauded its role in China’s defence, security and nation building.

Highlighting various facets of the deep-rooted ties between the two states, militaries and the people, the army chief mentioned: “Pakistan-China relationship is unique and robust that has proven its resilience in the face of challenges.”

In his speech, the Chinese ambassador thanked the COAS for hosting the reception on the eve of the PLA’s 95th foundation day anniversary.

The Chinese ambassador underlined that: “China and Pakistan are iron brothers, all-weather friends and strategic partners. The recent meeting of China-Pakistan Joint Committee of Cooperation held at China has set up an important platform for military collaborations, which will serve effectively for military-to-military relations between the two countries.”

Earlier on Sunday, President Xi Jinping, Secretary General of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, on Sunday attended a reception to celebrate the 95th founding anniversary of the PLA, which falls on August 1. The reception was held at the Great Hall of the People by the Ministry of National Defense.

President Xi, also chairman of the Central Military Commission, was joined by other senior leaders of the Party and the state, including Li Keqiang, Li Zhanshu, Wang Yang, Wang Huning, Zhao Leji, Han Zheng and Wang Qishan.